Polson Travel Guide

Explore the best of Polson, Montana with this comprehensive tour guide! Discover the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, local food and drink, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Polson

Located in northwestern Montana, Polson is a charming town situated on the south shore of Flathead Lake. With a population of just over 4,000, Polson is a perfect destination for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities. The town offers an abundance of recreational activities, scenic views, and a vibrant cultural scene.

List of Places to Visit in Polson

Polson boasts several culturally important attractions, natural wonders, and hiking and biking routes that travelers should be sure to check out during their stay. Here’s a list of places to visit in Polson:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Polson Flathead Historical Museum - This museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of Polson and the surrounding areas, featuring exhibits on the town’s past and the Flathead Indian Reservation.
  • Miracle of America Museum - Covering over 40,000 square feet, the Miracle of America Museum has an extensive collection of artifacts from America’s past, including over 1,000 antique cars, planes, and motorcycles.

Natural Attractions of Polson: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Flathead Lake - The largest natural freshwater lake in the western United States, Flathead Lake is a popular destination for boating, swimming, and fishing. Be sure to enjoy a scenic drive along the lake’s shore.
  • Mission Mountains - Located south of Polson, the Mission Mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop to the town. Hikers and climbers can take on trails in the Mission Mountain Wilderness, while other travelers can enjoy the stunning views from roadside pullouts.
  • Kerr Dam - Built in the 1930s, the Kerr Dam spans the Flathead River and provides hydroelectric power to the surrounding area. Visitors can take a guided tour of the dam and learn about its history and operation.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Polson

Polson offers hikers and bikers several scenic routes through the beautiful Montana wilderness. Here are some popular routes:

  • Bison Range Trail - Located just east of Polson, this 2.25-mile trail winds through the National Bison Range and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Polson Loops - There are several loop routes around Polson that range from beginner to advanced difficulty. These trails offer beautiful views of the lake and mountains.
  • Pablo National Wildlife Refuge Trails - Located just a few miles from Polson, these trails wind through wetlands and along the river, providing the perfect opportunity for wildlife spotting.

Best Things to Do in Polson: Activities and Tours

Polson provides visitors with several activities and tours to enjoy during their stay. Here are some of the best things to do in Polson:

  • Flathead Lake Boat Tours - Take a boat tour of Flathead Lake to see the sights from the water, including Wild Horse Island State Park, a unique island home to wild horses that tourists can observe.
  • Polson Bay Golf Course - This gorgeous golf course provides stunning views of the lake and mountains while you play a round of golf.
  • Kerr Dam Tours - Take a guided tour of the Kerr Dam to see how it works, and learn about its impact on the surrounding area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Polson

Here’s a week-long itinerary for travelers looking to explore the best of Polson:

Day Activity
Monday Visit the Polson Flathead Historical Museum, and take a scenic drive along Flathead Lake.
Tuesday Spend the day hiking the Mission Mountains.
Wednesday Take a boat tour of Flathead Lake, and visit Wild Horse Island State Park.
Thursday Tee off at the Polson Bay Golf Course.
Friday Explore the Museum of America, and take a guided tour of the Kerr Dam.
Saturday Visit the Pablo National Wildlife Refuge for some wildlife spotting.
Sunday Take a relaxing day to explore Polson’s local shops, restaurants, and art galleries.

Food and Drink Scene of Polson

Polson has several excellent local restaurants and bars to enjoy during your stay. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burger - A Montana classic dish, several local restaurants feature bison burgers on their menu.
  • Flathead Cherry Pie - Made with locally grown Flathead cherries, this pie is a must-try when in Polson.
  • Trout - Trout is a popular fish to eat in Montana, with several local restaurants featuring fresh trout on their menu.

Local Beverages

  • Flathead Lake Brewing Co. - This local brewery features several delicious craft beers on tap.
  • Montana Spirits and Wine - A must-visit for wine and spirits lovers, Montana Spirits and Wines offers tastings and tours to their visitors.

Where to Stay in Polson: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Polson offers a wide range of accommodations to cater to the needs of visitors. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly options, here are some recommendations on where to stay in Polson:

  • KwaTaqNuk Resort and Casino - This upscale resort offers stunning views of the lake, a casino, and several dining options.
  • Red Lion Inn and Suites - A more budget-friendly option, the Red Lion Inn and Suites offer comfortable rooms and close proximity to the town’s attractions.
  • Polson Motorcoach and RV Resort - If you’re traveling with an RV, this resort is the perfect choice. It offers a stunning lakeside location, full hookups, and a host of amenities.

What to Buy in Polson: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Polson offers several unique souvenirs and local products to bring home as a memory of your trip. Here are some recommendations:

  • Huckleberry Jam - A local favorite, huckleberry jam can be found at several local shops and markets.
  • Bison Products - Montana is known for its bison, and several local shops offer bison jerky, sausages, and more.
  • Native American Crafts - Polson is located near several Native American reservations, providing visitors with the perfect opportunity to buy authentic native crafts as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Polson

Polson has a rich history and cultural scene, with a vibrant Native American influence. When visiting Polson, be sure to respect the local customs and traditions. There are several powwows, rodeos, and other cultural events that visitors can attend to learn more about the town’s culture.

Best Time to Visit Polson

The best time to visit Polson is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and the lake is open for swimming and boating.

Do’s and Don’ts of Polson

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Polson:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities and scenic views.
  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t disturb local wildlife.
  • Don’t take rocks or other natural souvenirs from the area.

Safety and Health

When visiting Polson, safety and health should always be a top priority. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and healthy trip:

Safety in Polson

  • Always wear a life jacket when boating or swimming in Flathead Lake.
  • Take precautions when hiking in the mountains, such as wearing proper clothing and bringing plenty of water.
  • Be aware of wildlife in the area.

Health in Polson

  • Stay hydrated in the dry Montana climate.
  • Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and protective clothing.
  • Be aware of the risk of tick-borne diseases when hiking in the mountains.

Getting to Polson: Transportation Options and Logistics

Polson is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. Here are some tips on how to get to Polson:

Airports Near Polson

  • Glacier Park International Airport - Located 66 miles northeast of Polson, Glacier Park International Airport offers several daily flights to major U.S. cities.
  • Missoula International Airport - Located 78 miles south of Polson, Missoula International Airport offers several daily flights to major U.S. cities.

Bus Stations Near Polson

  • Amtrak - The closest Amtrak stop to Polson is in Whitefish, which is about 50 miles north of the town.
  • Greyhound - The closest Greyhound stop to Polson is in Missoula, which is about 78 miles south of the town.

Other Options

  • Rental car - Renting a car is an excellent option for travelers looking to explore the surrounding areas of Polson.
  • Taxi - Local taxi services are available in and around Polson.

How to Get Around in Polson

Polson is a walkable town, and visitors can easily get around on foot. Rental cars are also available for those who want to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Polson: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your Montana adventure, here are some nearby destinations and excursions from Polson:

  • Glacier National Park - Located just a few hours north of Polson, Glacier National Park is a must-visit destination for travelers to Montana.
  • Missoula - This charming college town is located about an hour and a half south of Polson, and offers several cultural attractions, including museums and art galleries.
  • Whitefish - This resort town is located about an hour north of Polson, and features several outdoor activities, including skiing and hiking.

Conclusion

Polson, Montana, is a charming town full of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and natural wonders. This comprehensive tour guide has covered everything from hiking and biking routes to where to stay and what to eat. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, Polson has something for everyone.

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